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rosemary

rosemary seeds or rosemary ( syn. Salvia rosmarinus )

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The slender, aromatic leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis provide interest throughout the year, and can be added to a multitude of dishes to enhance the flavour. Also, from mid-spring to early summer (and often with a second flush in autumn), small lilac-blue to white flowers appear towards the ends of the stems.

A decorative and popular herb, rosemary adds year round appeal in herb gardens, mixed borders or larger pots. Thriving in warm, sunny positions, try to plant it close to a path or entranceway where you can brush past them and release their delicious scent.

The dark green leaves can be used fresh, dried or frozen and are best harvested in spring, when new shoots are emerging.

How to care for Rosmarinus officinalis:

Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil, as rosemary thrives in warm, dry conditions once established. Space plants 45-60cm (1.5-2ft) apart to allow for their natural spread, or 30cm (12in) apart if you’re creating a hedge.

To maintain a bushy, compact shape, tip-prune the stems regularly, removing just the soft new growth. However, be cautious not to cut back into the old, woody stems, as rosemary struggles to regenerate from hard pruning.

For best results (and to offer some cold weather protection for the roots), mulch around the base of the plant with well-rotted compost, keeping the mulch away from the stems to prevent rot.

Sowing instructions:

Surface-sow in trays or pots and water well, allowing the compost to become quite dry before repeating. Thin out when large enough to handle and pot on individually into 7.5cm pots.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
1.2m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, but well-drained soil, or general-purpose loam-based potting compost

Hardiness:

Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)

  • InformationHumans: Skin allergen

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RH30005695
2 + 1 FREE 9cm pots
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RH30001973
9cm pot
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PL00006040
2 litre pot
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SD30000812
approx 60 seeds
£2.49
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